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Date Permissions Signed

7-22-2014

Date of Award

2014

Document Type

Masters Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

History

First Advisor

Jimerson, Randall C.

Second Advisor

Kurtz, Tony, 1965-

Third Advisor

Thompson, Roger R.

Abstract

Technology is continually changing. New advancements in technology allow records creators to employ a plethora of different mediums. Records created born-digitally are entering the archives, and archivists are challenged in appraising records that may be available only on outdated or unreadable software or hardware platforms. This thesis examines key issues regarding working with, especially appraising, born-digital materials in archival collections. The archival profession confronts inadequate education on technological challenges, a need to reexamine archival theories and methodologies regarding appraisal, and a general terror when it comes to working with born-digital material. Through use of interviews, this thesis explores the practical side of appraisal through a discourse on what current archivists are working on, their methodologies, and their advice and recommendations for those just starting to work on born-digital material. The thesis argues that even the smallest steps to address challenges with working with born-digital material mark a step in the right direction.

Type

Text

DOI

https://doi.org/10.25710/80jp-v297

Publisher

Western Washington University

OCLC Number

889082462

Subject – LCSH

Appraisal of archival materials; Electronic records--Management; Electronic records--Conservation and restoration

Format

application/pdf

Genre/Form

masters theses

Language

English

Rights

Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this thesis for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author's written permission.

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